Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Sidney Banks Memorial at Huntingdon

Some interesting contenders in the competitive-looking 3.25 at Huntingdon tomorrow. I'm not a fan of Mahonia who has a couple of disappointing runs to put behind him. Earlier in the season Donald McCain made no secret of the fact he holds Son Of Flicka in very high regard - the horse's second behind Alfie Flits in the Rossington Main at Haydock reads well. That day Mcmurrough was half a length further behind in third but on that occasion the latter-named was receiving four pounds whereas here they re-oppose at level weights. The extra half mile or so should suit both; I'm guessing connections of Mcmurrough fancy they can turn the placings around as they've opted to take up this engagement rather than the easier-looking Blue Square Poker Novices' Hurdle at Ayr. Helpston wouldn't be one to dismiss lightly either; Pam Sly's charge is tipped up in today's Weekender, with plenty being made of the fact the weather had held up this horse in his work when he failed to give eight pounds to Pause And Clause. The stats indicate the market is generally a good guide to this - six of the last seven winners have been sent off favourite. Son Of Flicka is the best horse on RP ratings and is marginally preferred.

1 comment:

Son Of Flicka and Mcmurrough were sent off joint 5/2 favourites but neither could get anywhere near 20/1 winner Time For Rupert. Mcmurrough never really travelled, finishing fourth, while Son Of Flicka didn't appear to stay the longer trip, finishing sixth.